Floods: Jemeppe-sur-Sambre Commune provides update on actions

Following the May floods, the commune details ongoing work, expert coordination, and steps for disaster recognition.

Generic image of flood aftermath in a Walloon municipality, showing cleanup efforts.
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Generic image of flood aftermath in a Walloon municipality, showing cleanup efforts.

Following the May floods, the Municipality of Jemeppe-sur-Sambre provides an update on actions taken, including works, expert coordination, and administrative procedures.

Following the floods on May 30 and 31, the Municipality organized citizen meetings to gather residents' experiences. Testimonies, photos, and videos have been sent to the GISER Cell for field study. The presence of the River Contract, the Provincial Technical Service (STP), the Rescue Zone, and municipal services provided direct technical explanations, crucial for identifying vulnerabilities and anticipating future risks. Reports are available on the municipal website.
The application for disaster recognition is currently being processed by the Public Service of Wallonia (SPW). Information will be disseminated upon receipt of the response. The report from the GISER cell, with specific recommendations, is expected in December.
Since May 30, the Municipal Technical Service has been actively engaged in meeting residents and addressing their difficulties. Teams are carrying out ditch and road cleaning, repairs, and interventions to improve water flow. A meeting with the engineering firm Buresco was held regarding Rue de Tongrinne. The first meeting of the Flood Cell took place on Tuesday, September 22, to plan future actions.
A consultation with the SPW Watercourses and the STP has assessed completed actions on waterways, including cleaning and bank consolidation, particularly on Rue du Peka and Rue de l’Île. Further interventions are planned under the Onoz viaduct. Management is divided: the SPW handles 1st category watercourses (La Ligne and l’Orneau), while the STP manages 2nd category (Grand Vaux, Chaufour) and supports the Municipality for the 3rd category. A volunteer association also assisted in cleaning sections of La Ligne and l’Orneau.
Individual letters are being sent to residents whose properties pose drainage or obstruction issues. This reminder of legal responsibilities and maintenance rules for watercourse surroundings is deemed essential for everyone's safety. Coordination is key to gradually restoring the situation and improving water management and flow in the area.
The Municipality will attend the Inondéa trade show in Liège on October 11 and 12. This event aims to enhance knowledge on protection against runoff and flood risks. Municipal representatives and citizens are welcome. Entry is free.
Based on information from the official source: Commune de Jemeppe-sur-Sambre (24/09/2026)